Recent Posts

Navigating Water Damage After the DFW Freeze

1/19/2024 (Permalink)

As the winter freeze tightens its grip on Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), the risk of water damage becomes a real concern for homeowners and businesses alike. Team Shaw, your trusted emergency restoration experts in East Plano, are here to guide you through the crucial steps to take after encountering water damage during the DFW freeze. Prompt action is key to minimizing further damage and restoring your property to its pre-incident condition.

How to Respond to Water Leaks & Damage

  1. Safety First:

    The safety of you and your loved ones is paramount. If the water damage is extensive or poses electrical hazards, evacuate the premises and contact professionals like Team Shaw immediately.

  2. Assess the Extent of Damage:

    Once it's safe to do so, assess the extent of the water damage. Identify affected areas and take note of any potential hazards. This initial assessment will help Team Shaw tailor their restoration plan to your specific needs.

  3. Document the Damage:

    Take photographs and videos of the water-damaged areas. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and will serve as a reference point during the restoration process.

  4. Turn Off Water Sources:

    If the water damage is caused by a burst pipe or other plumbing issues, locate and turn off the main water supply to prevent further flooding.

  5. Electricity Precautions:

    Exercise caution around electrical appliances and outlets. If it's safe to do so, turn off the electricity in affected areas. Avoid using electrical appliances until Team Shaw has assessed and addressed potential electrical hazards.

  6. Contact Team Shaw Immediately:

    Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. Contact Team Shaw promptly to initiate the emergency restoration process. Our 24/7 response team will be on-site quickly to assess the situation and implement effective solutions.

  7. Water Extraction and Drying:

    Team Shaw utilizes advanced equipment for efficient water extraction and drying. Swift action is crucial to prevent secondary issues such as mold growth.

  8. Structural Repairs:

    Our experienced technicians excel in structural repairs, ensuring that your property is not only restored but fortified against future challenges.

  9. Mold Remediation:

    Addressing water damage promptly is crucial to preventing mold growth. Team Shaw specializes in mold remediation, ensuring a healthy indoor environment.

  10. Insurance Coordination:

    Team Shaw will work with you to navigate the insurance process, providing documentation and support to streamline the claims process.

Encountering water damage during the DFW freeze can be overwhelming, but with Team Shaw by your side, you're not alone. By following these steps and reaching out to our experienced emergency restoration team, you can mitigate further damage and embark on the path to a swift and effective recovery. Trust Team Shaw to handle the aftermath of water damage, restoring your peace of mind and your property. Contact us 24/7 for professional and reliable emergency restoration services in East Plano.

Handling Fire Damage After a Lightning Strike

1/19/2024 (Permalink)

A lightning strike can be a terrifying and destructive force of nature, causing devastating fire damage to homes and businesses. In the aftermath of such an incident, knowing the right steps to take is crucial. Team Shaw, your dedicated emergency restoration experts in East Plano, are here to guide you through the essential steps to be taken after encountering fire damage caused by a lightning strike.

What To Do After a Lightning Strike Fire

  1. Ensure Safety First:

    The safety of you and your loved ones is the top priority. If the fire is still active or there are safety concerns, evacuate the premises immediately and call emergency services.

  2. Wait for Clearance:

    Once emergency services have extinguished the fire and deemed the area safe, you can begin the process of assessing the damage.

  3. Assess the Extent of Fire Damage:

    Survey the affected areas to understand the extent of the fire damage. Take note of structural damage, compromised areas, and the impact on personal belongings.

  4. Contact Team Shaw Immediately:

    Time is of the essence when dealing with fire damage. Contact Team Shaw promptly to initiate the emergency restoration process. Our 24/7 response team will be on-site quickly to assess the situation and implement effective solutions.

  5. Secure the Property:

    If necessary, Team Shaw will help secure your property to prevent further damage, such as boarding up windows or covering exposed areas.

  6. Water Extraction and Drying:

    Firefighters may have used water to extinguish the fire, leading to additional water damage. Team Shaw utilizes advanced equipment for efficient water extraction and drying.

  7. Soot and Smoke Damage Assessment:

    Assess the extent of soot and smoke damage. Team Shaw specializes in cleaning and restoring areas affected by smoke, ensuring a thorough removal of soot particles.

  8. Structural Repairs:

    Our experienced technicians excel in structural repairs, ensuring that your property is not only restored but fortified against future challenges.

  9. Content Restoration:

    Team Shaw provides comprehensive content restoration services, addressing the damage to personal belongings and cherished items.

  10. Insurance Coordination:

    Team Shaw will work with you to navigate the insurance process, providing documentation and support to streamline the claims process.

Encountering fire damage after a lightning strike can be a devastating experience, but with Team Shaw by your side, you can rise from the ashes. By following these steps and reaching out to our experienced emergency restoration team, you can initiate a swift and effective recovery process. Trust Team Shaw to handle the aftermath of fire damage, restoring your property and providing the support you need during this challenging time. Contact us 24/7 for professional and reliable emergency restoration services in East Plano.

Weathering the Storm: Safeguarding Your Property in DFW

1/11/2024 (Permalink)

Storms can strike unexpectedly, leaving a trail of damage and disruption in their wake. Residents and businesses in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area are no strangers to the power of Mother Nature. That being said, storm damage isn't inevitable.

To drive this point home, let's explore proactive steps to avoid storm damage to your property and provide a roadmap for recovery if you find yourself facing the aftermath of a tempest. We'll also highlight the importance of partnering with an emergency storm restoration company like SERVPRO Team Shaw to navigate the restoration process efficiently.

Preventing Storm Damage:

  1. Regular Property Inspections: Regular inspections of your property, both inside and outside, can help identify vulnerable areas. Check for loose roof shingles, damaged siding, and weakened tree limbs that could pose a threat during a storm.

  2. Tree Maintenance: Trim overhanging branches and remove dead or diseased trees. Strong winds can turn these into dangerous projectiles during a storm.

  3. Gutter Maintenance: Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling and potential water damage.

  4. Secure Outdoor Items: Secure outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other loose items. High winds can turn these objects into projectiles, causing damage to your property or neighboring structures.

  5. Storm Shutters: If you live in an area prone to severe storms, consider installing storm shutters. These can provide an extra layer of protection for windows and doors.

Steps to Take After Storm Damage:

  1. Assess Safety: Safety is the top priority. Check for any immediate dangers such as downed power lines or gas leaks. If it's safe, inspect your property for damage.

  2. Document Damage: Take photographs and videos of the damage for insurance claims. This visual documentation will be crucial in the claims process.

  3. Contact Emergency Services: If necessary, contact emergency services for immediate assistance. Once your safety is ensured, reach out to an emergency storm restoration company like SERVPRO Team Shaw.

  4. SERVPRO Team Shaw: Your Restoration Partner: SERVPRO Team Shaw specializes in emergency storm restoration in the DFW area. Our experienced team is equipped to handle various storm-related damages, including water extraction, structural repairs, and debris removal.

  5. Water Damage Mitigation: Storms often bring heavy rain, leading to water damage. SERVPRO Team Shaw employs advanced water extraction and drying techniques to prevent further destruction.

  6. Structural Repairs: From roof repairs to addressing structural issues, SERVPRO Team Shaw ensures your property is restored to its pre-storm condition.

  7. Debris Removal: Storms can leave behind a trail of debris. SERVPRO Team Shaw efficiently removes debris, helping to restore order to your property.

While we can't control the weather, taking proactive measures and knowing the steps to take after storm damage can significantly mitigate the impact on your property. Partnering with a trusted emergency storm restoration company like SERVPRO Team Shaw ensures that you have experienced professionals by your side, ready to restore your home or business to its former glory. Together, we can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

What types of water damage are covered by homeowners insurance?

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The types of water damage that homeowners insurance has coverage for are listed in this article by SERVPRO® of East Plano. 

Various losses in homes and businesses can be caused by water intrusion leading to destructive processes like rotting of wood, rusting of metal, swelling of composite woods, damage to electrical devices, mold growth, etc. All these effects of water intrusion are described as water damage. Water damage is one of the leading causes of property loss in the US. It is one of the most frequent reasons for home insurance claims. 

Water damage can be devastating and lead to considerable property damage, especially if neglected. Water damage restoration must be meticulously done without delay to ensure that the water damage is limited. A professional water damage restoration company will ensure that water damage is cleaned up and that the risk for secondary water damage is reduced. 

SERVPRO of East Plano offers fire and water cleanup and restoration services. Though the Plano area is a great place to live, the climate can put businesses and homes at risk for water damage. Whatever the cause, residents and business owners who need water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX, can get prompt and expert service from Ridgewood, TX. This company is a trusted leader in the restoration industry that is owned and operated locally, thus ensuring clients get the best service from experts at any time without delays. 

SERVPRO of East Plano works with insurance companies to help clients who need water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX manage the process and paperwork associated with an insurance claim. In this article, the company explains when homeowner's insurance covers water damage. 

What types of water damage are covered by homeowner's insurance?

Usually, water damage that is sudden and accidental gets coverage from homeowners' insurance policies. The water damage that homeowner's insurance covers usually includes:

  • Bursting pipes: When a pipe freezes and bursts in winter, it is covered by insurance. But, there must be no neglect from the homeowner in adequately keeping the home heated for the claim to be granted.
  • Accidental leaks: when there is a leak from the plumbing or faulty appliances.
  • Fire cleanup, during which the water used to put out flames (from sprinklers or hoses) causes water damage.
  • Roof leaks after a storm or mishap that damages the roof can lead to water damage. Steps must be taken to fix damaged roofs within a reasonable timeframe. Delays in such measures to limit water damage will mean that further damage is not covered by insurance.
  • Hail storms or heavy rains that cause water damage.
  • If ice dams form on roofs due to ice accumulating in gutters causing sudden water damage, it is covered by insurance, but it must not be due to poor maintenance by the property owner.

When is water damage not covered by homeowner's insurance?

  • Flood damage: Home insurance policies will not cover water damage caused by floods. Flood damage can be due to hurricanes, storm surges, tsunamis, overflowing water bodies like rivers, etc. For flood damage coverage, separate flood insurance must be purchased. 
  • Negligence and inadequate maintenance of home or business owners that cause water damage can lead to the denial of claims for water damage.
  • Intentionally caused water damage, like when a home is set on fire or not repairing plumbing leaks for a long time. 
  • A standard homeowner's insurance policy will not cover sewage backup and sump pump failure causing water damage, but a rider can be purchased for sewer backup or sump failure.
  • Water damage caused by leaking from structures like swimming pools or seeping or leaking through cracks in the foundation.
  • Faulty appliances that leak, causing water damage, will need to be repaired or replaced, and a homeowner's insurance policy does not pay for these costs.

Preventing water damage

It is always better for homeowners and business owners to protect their property from water damage. These measures include routine maintenance of appliances, roofs, plumbing, and building structures, and ensuring swift repair when any problem is noticed.

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs help homeowner's insurance claims for water damage are not denied on the grounds of negligence. Such measures as draining water heaters to prevent sediment buildup, inspecting hoses connected to appliances for leaks, periodic roof inspections for leaks, ensuring adequate heating in winter to reduce the risk of bursting pipes, etc., must be carried out diligently. 


A reliable professional water damage restoration service can make water damage easier to manage. With highly trained technicians who undergo initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility and have IICRC certifications, SERVPRO of East Plano ensures expert service. Their latest equipment ensures that water damage restoration is quick and efficient and the highest industry standards are followed. For reliable water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX, property owners can call (972) 578-1644 and get help from SERVPRO of East Plano.

Tips to Help Businesses Recover After Flood Damage

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Tips to help businesses that have experienced flood damage are listed in this article by SERVPRO® of East Plano.

Flooding is a disaster that is devastating emotionally and financially for home and business owners. Flood damage cannot always be prevented, especially due to natural causes. Taking steps to minimize the immediate damage and planning for flood damage restoration to return to a preloss condition is the focus after flooding.

Flood water is considered contaminated and is a Category 3 water damage. It is safer when professionals handle the cleanup after any flood damage. East Plano and surrounding areas can experience stormy weather, like flash floods, hail, or tornadoes, that puts the community at risk of flood damage. SERVPRO of East Plano has highly trained storm damage specialists that offer flood restoration services in Bethany Lakes Park, TX, and surrounding areas. This locally owned and operated business is always prepared to respond to flood or storm damage emergencies. In this article, SERVPRO of East Plano provides some tips to help businesses facing flood damage.

How does flood damage affect businesses?

Flooding causes disruptions to businesses by different means, including the following:

Damage to assets and inventory: There can be damages to machines, merchandise, vehicles, or devices that take time to replace or repair.

Closure of buildings: when flood water enters a building, the cleanup can take time, during which the building may be closed for safety.

Data loss and power disruption: Flood water can damage electrical systems and electronic devices like computers. It can be impossible to repair electronics sometimes, which is why data backups are crucial for businesses.

Revenue loss: the loss of inventory and equipment and the time and money needed for flood damage restoration services can cost a considerable amount. Also, during the flood damage restoration process, the business may be closed or need alternative arrangements which impact the revenue.

What to do to recover from flood damage

Flood damage can have a prolonged impact on a business, depending on the extent of the damage. Hence, it benefits businesses to plan for a flood and the flood cleanup after that, primarily if located in an area at risk of floods. The following are some measures that will help in the aftermath of flood damage.

Have an emergency response plan for disasters, including flooding

The emergency response plan should include all the data and documents like contact information for employees and emergency services, inventory lists, etc.

Do regular backups

Ensure that a data backup is done regularly.

Research on available resources

Check the assistance options available for businesses in the event of a flood. FEMA, United Way, and the US Chamber of Commerce offer assistance and resources to businesses for flood recovery. Local and state governments may also have programs to help businesses affected by flood damage.

Get professional flood damage restoration services

Businesses with flood insurance policies must keep them up to date. Knowing local flood restoration services with a good reputation will help in the event of a disaster.

Protect assets from floods

Businesses can take steps to protect themselves from flood damage, like relocating to an area less prone to floods, floodproofing the building, building floodwalls, and elevating the building.

Being prepared may mean the battle is half-won. But, the battle may still have to be fought. Despite the best precautions, businesses can be affected by flood damage. Flood damage restoration done by professionals helps to resume business as usual as soon as possible. SERVPRO of East Plano offers residential and commercial flood damage restoration services in Bethany Lakes Park, TX. As a leader in the storm and water damage restoration industry, the company has a team of experts with the training and expertise to handle flood damage. The flood damage restoration process uses scientific drying techniques and monitors and documents the entire process. Business owners and residents who need flood damage restoration services in Bethany Lakes Park, TX, can contact SERVPRO of East at (972) 578-1644. The company offers 24-hour emergency services and is quick to respond to disasters of any size.

How to remove water from a home?

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of East Plano shares some ways to remove water from a home in this article.

Water damage is estimated to affect 98% of basements in the U.S. during their life. This figure shows how common the problem is. Water damage must be dealt with immediately to prevent extensive damage. Prolonged exposure to water can cause structural damage. Mold growth is also a risk.

All steps in the water damage restoration process must be followed to ensure no residual moisture is left. Water removal is essential whether there is standing water or water soaked into the building and furnishing. Water removal involves removing excess water from areas affected by water damage. It prevents moisture from spreading, causing more structural damage, and reduces the time needed to dry the area. Water damage restoration specialist SERVPRO of East Plano serves Watters Crossing, Allen, TX, and surrounding areas. The company is locally owned and operated and quickly responds to water damage emergencies.

How can homeowners do water removal?

1. Identify and stop the water source

Locating the source and stopping water from intruding further is essential for effective water removal.

2. Promote air circulation indoors

Take steps to allow air to circulate more freely in the house. Opening doors and windows will improve air circulation. If affected by water damage, the doors of the cabinets and closets can be kept open.

3. Mechanical air movement

High-powered fans are available for rent, and they increase air circulation, which will speed up the restoration.

4. Dehumidifiers

Moisture in any space affected by water can be removed or sucked out by dehumidifiers. If the water damage is extensive or there is flood damage, dehumidifiers with large water trays can be used.

5. Pump water away

A sump pump is useful when there is standing water in a home. The submersible pump removes water from the house through a pipe or hose.

6. Vacuum

A wet vacuum helps suck water from rugs, carpets, and other materials saturated with water. It is important to remember that household vacuums are not suitable for water removal in these conditions.

7. Desiccants

Materials like silica gel are desiccants, and they absorb moisture. Bags or containers of desiccants to use for water removal are available.

8. Removing objects from the area

Removing soaked rugs, carpets, and furniture to a sunnier or drier place will help to dry them. Wet flooring may have to be removed to allow proper air circulation and ventilation to prevent mold growth.

When extensive restoration is needed, unaffected belongings can be moved to protect them. SERVPRO of East Plano offers an efficient move-out service during the water removal process.

Why is water removal best handled by professionals?


Though the above measures help in water removal, they are effective when the water damage is minimal. Professional water damage restoration is recommended for more extensive water damage or when a contaminated water source is involved. SERVPRO of East Plano provides water damage restoration, including water removal in Watters Crossing, Allen, TX. Water removal is done after inspection by highly trained technicians. This step removes the bulk of the water that has intruded into the home. SERVPRO of East Plano has highly-trained technicians who use truck-mounted and portable extraction units, powerful submersible pumps, and industrial-grade wet and dry vacuums for efficient water removal. They remove most of the water, which reduces the time needed to dry the area. The sooner the home is dry, the less the chance of secondary water damage and mold growth. Contact SERVPRO of East Plano on the number (972) 578-1644 for fire and water cleanup and restoration in Watters Crossing, Allen, TX.

How long does it take to dry water damage?

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of East Plano discusses how long it takes to dry water damage.

Water damage is a common cause of loss of property in the US. Though water damage can be sudden, it can result in long-term damage. The water damage restoration process requires time. There must be no delay in starting this process, as delays can worsen water damage and lead to complications.

SERVPRO of East Plano is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. This locally owned and operated company can respond to emergencies and provide water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX, and surrounding areas. In this article, SERVPRO of East Plano explains how long drying water damage takes, and what influences drying time.

For people who experience water damage, one of the first thoughts is about how long their home or office will take to dry after water damage. Water damage can be devastating, and it affects the normal life of inhabitants of affected homes and disrupts business in affected commercial buildings. Typically, drying after water damage takes around 5 days. But, the drying time depends on the extent of water damage, the methods used for drying, the source of water damage, what materials and objects are affected, and how long the area has been exposed to water, etc. So, based on these factors, water damage can dry in as little as 2 days or take between 7 to 10 days. 

How can drying be done after water damage?

The water damage restoration process, including drying, can be handled better by water damage restoration professionals. It is especially true if more area is affected, the water damage is extensive (how much material is affected and how much moisture is absorbed), and the source of water damage is contaminated. Professionals will ensure that the water damage restoration is thorough but quick, following industry standards and safety precautions, and reduces the risk of complications from water damage.

  1. Air drying: This is a simple and natural method of drying by increasing air circulation in the affected area. Opening windows and allowing air to move in and out will help water to dry. But, this method may not be effective in humid or rainy climates. Texas weather is not suitable for this method, and water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX, and nearby localities can be handled more effectively by experts like SERVPRO of East Plano.
  2. Drying equipment: There are types of equipment like fans, dehumidifiers, submersible pumps, and wet vacuums that can be used to speed up drying. But, homeowners or commercial property owners doing this must know that operating equipment near water can be dangerous. The outlets and plugs must not have been exposed to water. If there is any indication of danger from the electrical system being exposed to water, it might be better to approach an electrician and water damage restoration technicians for their service.

Why choose professional water damage restoration from SERVPRO of East Plano?

All steps of the water damage restoration process, including drying, can be done more efficiently by a professional. For reliable water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX, SERVPRO of East Plano is always available. Their highly trained restoration specialists have initial and ongoing training from the company and IICRC certifications. SERVPRO of East Plano also has state-of-the-art equipment for the different steps of the water damage restoration process, like inspection, water removal, and drying. Industrial-grade dehumidifiers prevent secondary water damage, and high-speed air movers speed up moisture evaporation in carpets, walls, and furniture. Quick but thorough drying is important, as residual moisture can lead to mold growth. Residents and businesses who need water damage restoration in Ridgewood, TX, can contact SERVPRO of East Plano on the phone number (972) 578-1644.

Does Drywall Need To Be Replaced After Flood Damage?

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of East Plano shares some insight into whether drywall needs to be replaced after flood damage.

Homes can get flooded due to several reasons. Flood damage usually occurs due to water from a natural disaster (hurricane, heavy rain), including flash flooding, sump failure, roof leaks, etc. Flooding can result in a devastating situation that will probably need water damage restoration services. 

Water damage refers to the losses that water intrusion causes, which enables the destruction of materials or objects. Destructive processes due to water can be the rotting of wood, rusting of metal, mold growth, etc. Drywall is a building material susceptible to water damage when flooding occurs. It is made up of sheets of gypsum board. It is used extensively in residential and commercial construction. Though it is sturdy, drywall is porous and can absorb water when exposed for long. Drywall is most likely to sustain water damage when it is exposed to water for any period of time. In this article, SERVPRO of East Plano explains why drywall needs to be replaced after flood damage. SERVPRO of East Plano is a locally owned and operated business that provides water damage restoration in Plano, TX, and surrounding areas. Their highly trained water damage restoration technicians use state-of-the-art equipment for water extraction and drying property. SERVPRO of East Plano ensures the swift restoration of residential and commercial property. 

Signs of water damage in drywall

  • Soggy or wet spots that may be damp or soft
  • Sagging or bulging of drywall
  • Loosened bolts and screws around the drywall
  • Brownish or blackish discoloration or streaks where the water leaked on the drywall
  • Wallpaper that is bubbled or peeling off
  • Paint that is bubbling or softening and chipping
  • Mold growth 
  • Musty odors due to water trapped in the drywall 

When should drywall be replaced?

The drywall must be inspected thoroughly after any flooding or suspected water damage. If the flooding is major, the probability of water damage is high. 

Slight dampness of drywall

If the drywall is only slightly damp, it may not need to be replaced. However, drying the drywall swiftly is essential. Pointing fans to the drywall may help dry it after stopping the water source. Opening windows may help circulate air and dry the drywall if the climate is not too wet and humid.

Soggy drywall

Since drywall is porous, it absorbs water. The more time it is exposed to water, the more water the drywall absorbs. When the drywall is soggy or starts to sag or bulge, it means a lot of water has been absorbed. The deformed drywall needs to be removed as it can collapse. Wet drywall can also lead to mold growth. Water damage restoration professionals recommend that wet drywall be replaced within 48 hours, as mold growth starts when surfaces remain moist for more than 24 to 48 hours.

Mold growth

Sometimes water damage may seem insignificant immediately, and the drywall may not appear wet. But, mold growth may occur later. Small black spots may appear on the surface, or a musty odor may be emitted. When mold is suspected, a water damage restoration specialist is needed to remove and replace drywall. These personnel are trained and have the protective equipment and devices to quickly, effectively, and safely handle water damage.

Replacing drywall may be simple for some. But, if the water damage was due to flood water that is considered to be contaminated, or there is a risk of mold growth, a water damage restoration company can be called in. They will remove and replace drywall without compromising on safety while ensuring the integrity of the structure of the building is improved. SERVPRO of East Plano is a trusted leader in the water damage restoration industry. Their skilled team provides customized solutions for residential and commercial water damage restoration needs. Irrespective of the size of the disaster, businesses, and homeowners who need water damage restoration in Plano, TX, and surrounding areas can contact SERVPRO® of East Plano on the phone number (972) 578-1644. 

Can carpets and carpet pads be saved after water removal?

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of East Plano explains whether carpets and carpet pads can be saved after water removal. 

Water damage is an exceedingly common cause of property loss in the US. Water damage is estimated to affect 14,000 people on any given day across the country. Leaking pipes, clogged drains, malfunctioning appliances, faulty sump pumps, defects in the building, and flooding due to natural disasters can result in water damage. This can result in structural damage to buildings, destruction of building materials, and damage to any objects exposed to water, like furniture, furnishing, appliances, etc. 

Carpets are used in homes to bring warmth, improve the room's acoustics, and add to the aesthetics. Carpet pads are used below the carpets to add to the carpets' comfort, shock absorption, warmth, and durability. Carpets must be kept dry, as moisture can lead to mold growth. Once carpets get moldy, they can be smelly, unhygienic, and cause health problems. 

Water damage done by a water damage restoration professional is quicker and more effective. SERVPRO of East Plano is a franchise of a trusted leader in the restoration industry. They offer water damage restoration services in Murphy, TX, by highly trained technicians who follow IICRC standards and best practices. In this article, SERVPRO of East Plano discusses whether carpet and carpet pads can be reused after water removal.

Can carpets and carpet pads be saved after water damage?

It is advisable to restore and reuse things after water damage if possible. This saves money and is also a more sustainable choice. Several factors determine whether a carpet can be saved after water removal for further use. The age and quality of the carpet and how well it was installed will affect whether it should be saved. It may be better to discard an old, worn-out carpet rather than invest time and money in water removal and drying. Carpets that remained damp or soaked for more than two days are likely to have developed mold and may have to be discarded. The CDC cautions that mold growth occurs within 24 to 48 hours on surfaces left moist or wet.

Another consideration in deciding if the carpet can be reused is the type of water damage. If clean water is causing water damage, a carpet can undergo steps of water damage restoration like water removal and drying. However, water removal must be initiated as soon as possible to prevent the risk of mold growth. Heavily soaked carpets or carpets that have been wet for more than 24 hours may have mold growth already. 

If greywater has affected the carpets, there is a lower probability of saving carpets. The carpet padding probably needs to be replaced. Water damage repair experts can do water removal with specialized equipment. They assess how long the carpets were exposed to water and the extent of damage before attempting to salvage them. After water removal, the carpets are dried and disinfected before being used. 

Carpets and carpet pads that were affected by blackwater are discarded. Blackwater is highly contaminated, and it is too risky to attempt water removal and reuse of these carpets. 

If there is a slight dampness, and the damage is due to clean water, homeowners may attempt to dry the carpet themselves. This option is possible only within 24 hours of exposure to water. Any more extensive or contaminated water damage is handled better by water damage restoration professionals. 

Wet carpets undergo the process of water removal first. A submersible pump may be used for carpets submerged in water. High-power special wet vacuums can also be useful, but ordinary home vacuum cleaners are ineffective. 

Professional water damage restoration will use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the carpets. This equipment will promote air circulation and enable faster evaporation of water. Since moisture that spreads from carpet to carpet pad causes mold growth easily, the carpet pad may need to be replaced even when the carpet is saved. 

Wet carpets are handled with care by water damage restoration technicians. Homeowners with water-damaged carpets that need water removal in Murphy, TX, and surrounding areas can get service from SERVPRO of East Plano. This company understands that each water damage situation is different. SERVPRO of East Plano has a step-by-step water damage restoration process that includes assessment, water removal, drying, cleaning and repair, and restoration. Trained technicians perform emergency water removal with specialized equipment that helps to reduce the drying time and prevent secondary water damage. They ensure carpet and carpet pad are inspected and removed if needed to protect the subfloor from water damage. Water damage restoration, including water removal in Murphy, TX, can be done with meticulous attention and without delay by calling SERVPRO® of East Plano on the phone number (972) 578-1644.

What To Look For When Hiring A Flood Restoration Service?

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of East Plano shares what to look for when hiring a flood restoration service. 

Water damage is common in the US and is a costly hazard for businesses and homes. People think of hurricanes, tropical storms, thunderstorms, heavy rain, and snow as the cause of flood damage. However, blocked or overburdened sewer and drainage systems, urbanization changes, and dam failures can cause flooding. Homes can also get flooded from roof leaks or faulty plumbing. 

Homeowners may be able to handle minimal flood damage from clean water by themselves. But most of the time, flood damage is better handled by professional flood restoration services. SERVPRO of East Plano is a highly trained storm damage specialist providing flood damage restoration services in Parker, TX, and nearby areas. This company has the edge of being a locally owned company with access to national storm resources. In this article, some tips to help choose the right flood restoration service are shared by SERVPRO of East Plano.

Some factors that should be considered when hiring a flood restoration service

1. Check for experience

Water damage restoration professionals with experience in flood restoration use that experience to find solutions quickly and cost-effectively. Experienced technicians and companies that have been operating in the industry for long are more reliable. SERVPRO is a cleaning and restoration brand that has been operating since 1967. They offer Initial Franchise Training for all new franchise owners. This helps to share the knowledge gained from years of experience in the restoration industry.

2. Verify if the flood restoration service is insured

It is safe to ensure that the company offers workers' compensation and general liability. Checking the company policies in case of accidents or other problems before hiring the company may be helpful. Usually, professional water damage restoration companies have safety protocols and take necessary precautions when working. 

3. Training and certification 

It is ideal to have certified and licensed technicians for water damage restoration. Certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is something to look for when hiring water damage repair professionals. The professionals at SERVPRO of East Plano study IICRC standards and best practices. They also have a voluntary, self-paced program. After the course and an examination are completed, a certification is awarded. Staff at SERVPRO of East Plano can also undergo web-based training to update franchise employees on industry standards and maintain professional quality. 

4. Availability

Flood damage can be sudden and without warning. If due to natural disasters, it is likely that flood damage will occur in several places in the area. Water damage restoration is time sensitive, as delay causes worsening of damage and secondary water damage. Hence choosing a flood restoration service with enough resources and access to handle flood damage is essential. SERVPRO of East Plano is a locally owned company that quickly provides flood restoration services in Parker, TX. They also have resources they can access from an extensive network of franchises. The Disaster Recovery Teams of SERVPRO are in strategic locations across the country. SERVPRO of East Plano has a quick response to disasters of any size. 

5. Reputation

Businesses that are experienced and offer quality services will satisfy customers. When choosing a flood restoration service, the company may provide prospective customers with satisfied customers who can share their experiences. Checking the company website and online sites like Yelp for reviews is useful. Checking with neighbors or friends living in the area who have recently hired a flood restoration service is also an excellent way to learn of a reliable water damage restoration service. 

SERVPRO® of East Plano provides flood restoration services in Parker, TX, and nearby areas. Their highly trained storm damage restoration technicians have advanced training, expertise, and experience that they utilize to restore homes to a preloss condition. To get flood restoration services in Parker, TX, SERVPRO of East Plano can be contacted via an email at dshaw@SERVPROheb.com or a phone call at (972) 578-1644.